The bill, S.B. No. 471, aims to expand the provision of telehealth and telemedicine services by allowing health professionals located outside of Texas to offer these services to patients within the state. It introduces new definitions for "health professional" and "physician," clarifying that these individuals can be licensed or certified in Texas or by a licensing agency in another state. The bill also establishes a registration process for out-of-state health professionals, requiring them to hold a valid license from another state, not be subject to disciplinary actions, and register with the appropriate Texas licensing agency. Additionally, it mandates compliance with Texas laws, including maintaining liability insurance and consenting to the jurisdiction of Texas courts.

Key amendments include the removal of specific language regarding the licensing requirements for telemedicine services and the addition of provisions that allow for the registration of out-of-state health professionals. The bill also authorizes the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation to set registration fees and adopt necessary rules for implementation. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply to health benefit plans issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Occupations Code 111.001 (Occupations Code 111)